Chad’s president set to extend his 30-year rule

Chad’s president set to extend his 30-year rule

­­­­­­­­At least 7.3 million voters are expected to vote in Chad's presidential election on Sunday.

Ten candidates appear on the ballot paper, however three of them have withdrawn from the race, citing intimidation and an "already rigged election“ in favor of President Marshal Idris Deby Itno.

Deby came to power in the oil-rich African nation 1990 through a military coup that removed Hissene Habre from office. He has maintained his grip on power since then, winning all five times he ran for office.

"Most of the young people amongst you were not born when I came to power,“ President Deby told cheering supporters at a campaign rally in the capital N'Djamena on Tuesday.

Political manipulation

Critics describe President Deby as a strongman who is leading the country with an autocratic style. Many have accused him of turning Chad into his backyard.

He has ruled over a profoundly fragmented nation, with multiple ethnic groups and clans vying for power.

Unlike his predecessors, Deby has remained in power for 30 years, thanks mainly to his political cunning and prowess as a military tactician.

Deby is an experienced military man, who last year was awarded the rank of marshal, the highest military accolade.

Few officers and dictators worldwide have been given this title.

Deby's critics accuse him of using